Candlelight vigil held for slain teacher

Jenkins mourned by candlelight

Police confirmed Tuesday afternoon what people in the St. Johnsbury community feared -- that the body they found in the woods in Barnet was Melissa Jenkins. Instead of hope, faces of her friends and family lit up with candles Tuesday night at a vigil held at the beloved teacher's school.

"This seemed timely and a way for them to grieve and process as a community together," said Beth Choiniere, assistant headmaster for Campus Life at St. Johnsbury Academy where Jenkins taught physics and coached girls' basketball.

Earlier in the day, students and faculty remembered the popular teacher for her contagious smile. "She was just a ray of sunshine, always happy. She was always in a good mood, always really happy and she made others happy," said Bill Donovan, a fellow science teacher at the Academy.

A coroner ruled the single mother's death a homicide. Police found Jenkins' body off Comerford Dam Road in Barnet Monday afternoon, where authorities said they'll continue to look for clues as to who killed her -- and why.

Troopers haven't said if they've got any people of interest in this case nor did they elaborate on how Jenkins was killed.

A community of family, friends and students seeks those answers too.

"I think if people understand maybe eventually why this might have happened, it might put some things to rest," said Donovan.

They said mourning together is the best thing they can do for now.

"People grieve in different ways. The key factor is what was mentioned in our chapel this morning -- it's that regardless of what evil happens out there, love always wins," said Choiniere.

Police said they were able to collect items of interest at the crime scene Tuesday, but that they are still looking for information regarding this case.

Anyone can call the St. Johnsbury Barracks at 802-748-3111 or send tips anonymously by texting "CRIMES" (274637) with the keyword VTIPS.

Police said people with information can also submit tips with this form: https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=1064